My wife and I recently returned from our first trip to Europe. It was a wonderful experience and I highly recommend using Rick Steves for any trip. Our guides were very helpful and possess so much knowledge. The "in country" guides were passionate about their communities which showed as we toured their cities.
When preparing for our trip we were advised (encouraged) to study the Guidebook which was provided. I strongly encourage everybody to make the effort to study the Guidebook. It adds so much information and helps you maximize your experience. We also were informed that petty crime such as pickpockets can be an issue in Europe. I can attest to that being a fact. I had a pickpocket attempt to get my wallet and two other members of our tour had the same experience. So use the money belt provided and be aware of your situation at all times. Don't let this stop you from visiting Europe but be a smart traveler.
Posted by
Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, USA
15825 posts
Thanks so much for your trip report! I'd so glad you enjoyed your first Europe trip and your first RS trip.
Where were you when you had the attempted pickpockting? On my 21 day Best of Europe one of the guys (who was retired law enforcement, lol) found a hand in his pocket as we waited for the subway train in Rome.
And yes to the money belt and situational awareness! Sometimes you think you are protected in a group but that is when you are vulnerable.
I hope you'll stick around the forum!
Posted by
OP
2 posts
I was on the Metro in Paris when the attempt to pick my pocket happened. The two other people in our tour had their experiences while we were in Rome on public transportation.
Posted by
Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, USA
15825 posts
Those are 2 locations where there are often problems. I've gotten picked on the Paris Metro although they only got my small toiletries bag so had to replace my chapstick and good hand cream, lol. I'm glad you were able to foil them.